My gynaecologist advised me to use Vagisil Wash or Balance Activ to help neutralise the ph and discourage overgrowth of bacteria and candidiasis (thrush). I wash my body with emulsifying ointment as my skin has become very dry and it is less likely to irritate done below. I wash my hair in the shower, but bend over when rinsing, in order to avoid the water coming into contact with down below as much as possible. I was also advised to use 2 lots of vagifem twice a week or Ovestin every day. As I have had a hysterectomy, I no longer have to use progesterone (yippee) and have been able to up oestrogen. I too belong to the over 60s club using HRT and will continue as long as there are no health reasons not to do so. For me HRT has given me a better quality of life.